Formally bestowed with the third highest civilian honour in the country -- the Padma Bhushan --on Tuesday, India's first individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra said the recognition will inspire him to win many more golds for the country.
Bindra, who became India's first individual Olympic gold medallist during the 2008 Beijing Games, was conferred the award by president Pratibha Patil at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here.
"This award only proves the fact that if there is sincere effort put forth by an individual, the results will always show, if not immediately but in a while for sure. This award has made me more confident of focusing all my energies towards one goal – many more golds for India," Bindra said on receiving the award.
The Chandigarh marksman also said that his success story and subsequent glory will inspire and motivate many others in the country.
"I am delighted by this honour that has been bestowed upon me. It feels great to be recognised for your work by your country and people and this recognition would no doubt motivate many in the country to work hard to achieve their dreams," he said.
The Padma Bhushan is the country's third highest civilian honour after the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan.
The awards were announced on Republic Day with the presentation ceremony taking place today in a full house. Abhinav's father AS Bindra was naturally a proud man.
"It's a matter of pride for any father to see his son bringing laurels for the country. I am proud of my son, and feel happy that the efforts that we as a family put towards him has finally paid us back, in the sweetest manner.
"This is a lesson for all parents in this country to let their children pursue their career in sports if that’s what their children want to do. I would like to thank the government and honourable President Mrs. Pratibha Patil for awarding Abhinav with the Padma Bhushan," the senior Bindra said.
